Data Scientist Salary in Raleigh
2026 compensation data for Data Scientist positions in Raleigh, NC. Ranges from $78,000 (entry-level) to $216,000 (senior). Median: $132,000.
Median (Mid)
$132,000
$63.46/hr
vs National
+4%
US: $127,000
COL Index
102
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$216,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $78,000 | $90,000 | $108,000 | $43.27/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $108,000 | $132,000 | $157,000 | $63.46/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $152,000 | $181,000 | $216,000 | $87.02/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Raleigh
A mid-level data scientist earning $132,000 in Raleigh has the same buying power as $129,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 102).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Data Scientist Salaries in Raleigh
The median data scientist salary in Raleigh, NC is $132,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 102 (national average = 100), Raleigh offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level data scientists in Raleigh can expect to earn between $78,000 and $108,000 (about $43.27/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $216,000 ($216K annually, or about $103.85/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Raleigh.
Frequently Asked Questions: Data Scientist Salary in Raleigh
What is the average Data Scientist salary in Raleigh?+
The average Data Scientist salary in Raleigh is $132,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $90,000 and senior-level pay reaches $181,000.
How much does an entry-level data scientist make in Raleigh?+
Entry-level data scientists in Raleigh earn between $78,000 and $108,000, with a median of $90,000 per year (about $43.27/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Data Scientist in Raleigh?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Data Scientist in Raleigh earns roughly $43.27/hour at entry-level, $63.46/hour at mid-level, and $87.02/hour at senior-level.
Is the Data Scientist salary in Raleigh higher than the US average?+
Yes — Data Scientist salaries in Raleigh are about 4% higher than the US national median of $127,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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